Risk factors of cardiovascular disease and its recommendations in Pakistani context

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cardiology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a leading cause of global mortality and disability.
• While CVD death rates have declined in high-income countries, they are increasing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which bear 80% of the burden.
• Pakistan, a LMIC, faces a growing CVD crisis exacerbated by economic and political instability, with insufficient attention to preventive measures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review major modifiable cardiovascular disease risk factors in Pakistan.
• To highlight existing preventive services for cardiovascular diseases in the country.
• To propose effective strategies for promoting risk-factor reduction at a population level.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of major modifiable cardiovascular disease risk factors in Pakistan.
• Analysis of available preventive services and public health initiatives.
• Synthesis of evidence to propose population-level prevention strategies.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in cardiovascular disease burden in Pakistan, disproportionately affecting LMICs.
• Key modifiable risk factors include diet, physical inactivity, and tobacco use.
• Limited public health infrastructure and resources hinder effective prevention services.

Conclusions:

• Urgent, practical interventions are needed to address cardiovascular disease risk factors in Pakistan.
• Enhanced understanding and public awareness of diet, physical activity, and tobacco control are essential.
• Policy-level changes and strengthened health systems are critical for population-level cardiovascular disease prevention.